Hayward Animal Shelter's "A Home for the Holidays" adoption event on December 11 and 12 saw the adoption of three dogs, an adult cat, two teenage kittens and a rabbit.

"This event was special not only because some of our residents found new homes and families in time for Christmas but because rabbits are seldom adopted unless the occasion is a rabbit-specific event," explained Christina Gin, Hayward Animal Shelter volunteer. "Similarly, 'senior' cats, such as Pinky, are more difficult to place than cuter kittens."

Shelter staff and volunteers appreciate the interest shown by visitors, adopters and donors throughout the year and also wish to thank everyone who supported and participated in the Santa Paws Parade on December 4. The pet parade raised approximately $2,000 to help homeless animals. All at the Hayward Animal Shelter look forward to the community's support and to placing as many of the animals that enter their care with new owners in 2011.

Animal adoption is available year-round and is not restricted to adoption events.

Please note that, as part of the city's efforts to maintain a balanced budget, the Shelter will close from Thursday, December 23 to Friday, December 31, 2010 and re-open on Monday, January 3, 2011. Animals may be left in the "overnight box." There will be staff caring for the animals during the furlough period.

For more information about animal services, contact Hayward Animal Shelter at (510) 293-7200 ext 7 or at 16 Barnes Court (at Soto Road and Jackson Street), Hayward. Also visit the City of Hayward's website (www.ci.hayward.ca.us) and click on the "Pet of the Week" hyperlinks at the bottom of the homepage.